WHITE HOUSE

Bryson Resigns as Commerce Secretary

Commerce Secretary John Bryson has resigned, citing the effects of a seizure he suffered while driving earlier this month. President Obama, who was meeting privately on Thursday with Bryson at the White House, said, "I want to extend my deepest thanks and appreciation to John for his service over the past months, and wish him and his family the very best."

Bryson went on medical leave after the traffic incident in California after which officials said he had suffered a seizure.

In a resignation letter late Wednesday to Obama, Bryson said, “I have concluded that the seizure I suffered on June 9th could be a distraction from my performance as secretary and that our country would be better served by a change in leadership of the department."

Obama said: "As secretary, John fought tirelessly for our nation’s businesses and workers, helping to bolster our exports and promote American manufacturing and products at home and abroad. John has proven himself an effective and distinguished leader throughout his career in both the public and private sectors, from his success in the business world to his work leading on issues in the renewable energy industry."

Deputy Secretary Rebecca Blank is serving as acting secretary. Obama said he was confident Blank "will serve the American people well as acting secretary."

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White House spokesman Jay Carney told reporters Blank will serve until a successor to Bryson is chosen. "If we had a personnel announcement to make, it would be provided," Carney said.